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How do ions contribute to the resting potential of a neuron?
  • a)
    By moving randomly across the membrane
  • b)
    By maintaining a higher concentration of sodium inside the cell
  • c)
    By preventing any ion movement across the membrane 
  • d)
    By establishing a high concentration of potassium inside and sodium outside
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
How do ions contribute to the resting potential of a neuron?a)By movin...
The resting potential of a neuron is maintained by a high concentration of potassium ions inside and sodium ions outside the cell, facilitated by the sodium-potassium pump.
Topic in NCERT: Generation and Conduction of Nerve Impulse
Line in NCERT: "Consequently, the axoplasm inside the axon contains high concentration of K* and negatively charged proteins and low concentration of Na*. In contrast, the fluid outside the axon contains a low concentration of K*, a high concentration of Na* and thus form a concentration gradient."
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Community Answer
How do ions contribute to the resting potential of a neuron?a)By movin...
Understanding Resting Potential in Neurons
The resting potential of a neuron is crucial for its function and is primarily determined by the distribution of ions across the cell membrane.
Key Factors in Establishing Resting Potential
- Ion Concentration Gradient:
The resting potential is largely due to the differences in ion concentrations inside and outside the neuron.
- Potassium (K+) and Sodium (Na+) Distribution:
- High Concentration of Potassium Inside:
Neurons maintain a higher concentration of potassium ions (K+) inside the cell. This is achieved through the action of the sodium-potassium pump, which actively transports K+ into the cell while moving sodium ions (Na+) out.
- Higher Sodium Concentration Outside:
Conversely, sodium ions (Na+) are kept at a higher concentration outside the cell. This gradient is essential for the generation of action potentials when a neuron is stimulated.
Role of Ion Movement
- Selective Permeability:
The neuronal membrane is selectively permeable to ions. At rest, it is more permeable to K+ than Na+, allowing K+ to move out of the cell more freely. This movement of K+ contributes to the negative charge inside the neuron.
- Resting Membrane Potential:
The combined effect of the higher concentration of K+ inside and Na+ outside, along with selective permeability, establishes a typical resting membrane potential of about -70 mV.
Conclusion
In summary, the resting potential of a neuron is critically dependent on the high concentration of potassium ions inside and sodium ions outside the cell. This ionic distribution, maintained by active transport mechanisms, is fundamental for neuronal excitability and signaling.
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